Monday, March 2025
Moving interstate is a big step for anyone – especially when you’re only four years old. For little Winnie, leaving behind her friends and familiar surroundings in Victoria to start fresh in Queensland was a daunting transition. But a visit from Life Ed and Healthy Harold to Currumbin State School brought comfort, connection and life-changing lessons.
A new beginningThe moment Winnie joined in the Harold’s Friend Ship session with educator Mariana, something clicked. Through engaging activities and heartfelt conversations, Winnie and her Prep classmates explored what it means to be a good friend, manage big feelings and stay safe.
“I learned about being kind – about helping people up and asking if they want a hug or not,” Winnie shared after the session. “If no one has toys, you can share. You don’t say, ‘No, you can’t have mine.’ You just say, ‘Here you go – you can have some too, and we can swap!’”
For Winnie’s mum, Amelia, the change was almost immediate.
“After school, we walked the whole way home talking about kindness and respect,” Amelia said.
“It was heartwarming to see her make an effort to get along with her older siblings too. She was calmer, happier, and more willing to talk about her feelings.”
Winnie even shared her newfound wisdom with her brother and sister, encouraging them to open up and treat each other with kindness.
Small lesson, big impactWhat amazed Amelia most was just how much her daughter absorbed in one session.
“Even a week later, Winnie confidently handled a tricky situation with two boys who weren’t playing nicely. She paused, thought about the best response, and decided to give them another chance while knowing she could ask an adult for help if needed. That understanding came directly from her Life Ed lesson.”
The ripple effect of Winnie’s experience didn’t stop there.
One evening, while watching Fireman Sam, Winnie took it upon herself to teach the family how to dial Triple Zero in an emergency – even showing them how to call without unlocking a mobile phone.
“I had no idea you could do that! It was amazing to see how much she retained and how eager she was to pass it on. Even her older siblings sat down to listen.”
Building brighter futuresAs a health promotion professional, Amelia understands the value of early education in shaping young lives. But as a mum, witnessing the transformation in her daughter has been deeply moving.
“I’m so impressed by how engaging the session was and the lasting impact it’s had – not just on Winnie but on all the students. Life Ed has given her confidence, empathy and crucial safety knowledge that as busy parents we sometimes overlook. Thank you for empowering our kids with the tools they need to thrive.”
In one lesson, Winnie found more than just strategies to navigate her new world – she discovered the power of kindness, the courage to speak up and the confidence to care for those around her. And that’s a lesson that will stay with her for years to come.
